Cruel & Fearsome: Viola Davis to play Dr. Volumnia Gaul in Hunger Games prequel

Viola Davis is set to embrace the villainous Dr. Volumnia Gaul in the upcoming Hunger Games prequel.

The prequel story is focused on 18-year-old Snow, who eventually becomes the tyrannical leader of the dystopia known as Panem.

Davis will play the mastermind of the diabolical teen death match and star opposite Tom Blyth as young Coriolanus Snow, Rachel Zegler as tribute Lucy Gray Baird, Hunter Schafer as Snow’s cousin and confidante Tigris Snow, and Peter Dinklage as Academy dean Casca Highbottom.

“The Hunger Games films have always been elevated by their exceptional casting, and we are thrilled to be continuing that tradition with Viola Davis as Volumnia Gaul,” Nathan Kahane, president of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group announced.

“Her formidable and powerful presence will add layers of complexity and menace to this story,” he added.

The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes will be helmed by Francis Lawrence, who previously directed the franchise’s Catching Fire, Mockingjay Part 1, and Mockingjay Part 2.

Lawrence described Dr. Gaul as "cruel, creative, fearsome and formidable."

The prequel debuts in theatres worldwide on Nov. 17, 2023.